Abstract

IN VITRO ANTIOXIDANT AND FREE RADICAL SCAVENGING POTENTIAL OF FOENICULUM VULGARE

Dr. Devika V.*

ABSTRACT

Ethanopharmacological Studies: Antioxidants are any substances that delays or inhibits oxidative damage to a target molecule. At a time one antioxidant molecule can react with single free radicals and are capable to neutralize free radicals by donating one of their own electrons, ending the carbon stealing reaction. Antioxidants prevent cell and tissue damage as they act as scavenger. Ayurveda and various traditional systems of medicines claim that foeniculum vulgare Apiaceae (Umbelliferaceae) is also highly recommended for diabetes, bronchitis and chronic cough, for the treatment of kidney stones, and is considered to have diuretic, stomachic and galactogogue properties. Aim of the study: To analyze the various free radical scavenging
activity of the plant foeniculum vulgare by standardized methods. Materials and Methods: Aqueous and methanolic extracts of foeniculum vulgare were screened for antioxidant activity. Various in vitro models were applied to evaluate anti oxidant property of these extracts. In vitro studies include Free Radical Scavenging Capacity (RSC) on DPPH Radicals, Scavenging capacity for hydroxyl radicals, (by measuring the degradation of 2 - deoxyribose with OH radicals generated in Fenton’s reaction) and ferric reducing ability of the plant. Results and Discussion: The methanolic extract showed the maximum free radical scavenging capacity as compared to aqueous extract at different concentrations. The presence of antioxidants was compared with commercial antioxidants, such as BHT (Butylated Hydroxy Toluene). Summary and Conclusion: The absorbance of aqueous and methanolic extracts was analysed. The results showed that the methanolic extract of foeniculum vulgare have high antioxidant activity than the aqueous extract.

Keywords: Foeniculum vulgare, free radicals, Antioxidants, BHT.